The $440,000 playground built by IPR Hawaii features swings, multiple slides, climbing rings, covered decks, benches, picnic tables and a pavilion with multiple areas designed for children between the ages of two and 12 years old. It also features a grass-like safety surface and canopies for shade.

“My older daughter plays soccer here, so every time we would drive by she’d be looking out the window, waiting for it to open,” said Michelle Eggers, who brought her two children to enjoy the new playground.

Officials say the facility is meant to be a hub of activity for families participating in soccer, baseball, basketball, tennis and other sports in the surrounding fields and nearby Kekuaokalani Gymnasium.

“Growing up in Kona, we didn’t have many of these playgrounds. This project was an important investment in our community, in our keiki, and in our families,” said Councilmember Dru Mamo Kanuha.

A playground is also currently being installed at Hilo’s Gilbert Carvalho Park as part of a $3 million investment in keiki playgrounds since 2008.